Google introduced Project Mainline since Android 10 to make it easier for Google Play enabled devices to get security and feature updates regardless of their manufacturers. When it first started, there were only 10 modules that could be updated. Today that number has increased significantly to 37 modules that can now be updated through Google Play. In this blog post, we will look at how Project Mainline has evolved over time and what changes we can expect going forward.
Why should you care about Project Mainline updates?
Project Mainline allows Google to push important updates like security fixes and new programming features to devices without needing manufacturers to release an OS update. Google says through recent ART (Android Runtime) updates delivered via Project Mainline, some devices saw up to 30% faster app startup times. It also allows older devices to get new features from recent Android versions through Play Store updates.
What’s new in Android 14?
There are 4 new Project Mainline modules introduced – ConfigInfrastructure, HealthFitness, Remote Key Provisioner and Time Zone Data v5. HealthFitness brings the Health Connect app into the OS so it no longer needs downloading. Two additional modules were added for Device Lock Controller and Virtualization support.
There have also been changes to existing modules. The Bluetooth module can now be updated via Play Store. Cronet network library was added to Connectivity module. Wi-Fi support is now mandatory for all devices.
What to expect in Android 15?
Potential new modules include CrashRecovery, NFC, RemoteAuthentication, ThreadNetwork support and an updatable UWB module. CrashRecovery and RemoteAuthentication functions are still unknown. NFC and Thread network stacks may be turned into modular components.
Project Mainline gives room for faster and more reliable updates to reach devices without relying on manufacturers. The number of updatable modules has grown significantly. Key changes in Android 14 include Health services integrated directly into OS and improved updatability of existing modules. Android 15 will likely introduce more components optimized for Project Mainline updating. This helps keep older devices more secure and adds new capabilities over time through Play Store updates.
